CDC defines a confirmed case of anthrax as 1) a clinically compatible case of cutaneous, inhalational, or gastrointestinal illness that
is laboratory confirmed by isolation of B. anthracis from an affected tissue or site or 2) other laboratory evidence of B. anthracis
infection based on at least two supportive laboratory tests.CDC defines a suspect case as
1) a clinically compatible case of illness without isolation of B. anthracis and no alternative diagnosis, but with laboratory evidence
of B. anthracis by one supportive laboratory test or 2) a clinically compatible case of anthrax epidemiologically linked to a confirmed
environmental exposure, but without corroborative laboratory evidence of B. anthracis infection.

“Consumer Alert “ regarding antibiotics sold on-line

Consumers who are visiting Web sites and receiving e-mail claiming to sell Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and other antibiotics to treat
anthrax should consult a new “Consumer Alert” before they buy products online, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The Alert,
"Offers to Treat Biological Threats: What You Need to Know," was produced by the FTC, in conjunction with CDC and the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA). The report is available online at www.ftc.gov/opa/2001/11/alert.htm

Update: New York anthrax investigations and WTC surveyThe 61-year-old employee of Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital (MEETH) who contracted
inhalation anthrax, died as a result of her illness. Thus far, all environmental samples from both MEETH, as well as the individual's home, have
tested negative for the presence of anthrax.At this point, the source of exposure to anthrax
remains under investigation. As part of an on-going comprehensive epidemiological investigation, the New York City Department of Health, in
collaboration with CDC, has interviewed over 250 co-workers and close contacts in an effort to establish a source of exposure. Further testing
will be done at MEETH and in the individual's home. Results are not expected until later this week.

As a precautionary measure the Health Department, working with Lenox Hill Hospital, has made
antibiotics available to over 1,100 individuals who work in, visited, or were treated at MEETH since October 11. Nasal swabs have been limited
to those individuals who worked in the immediate area of the deceased. Of the 28 nasal swabs, none tested positive for anthrax.

The New York City Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with CDC, is conducting a voluntary survey of lower Manhattan residents who
have been affected by the World Trade Center disaster. DOH is administering this survey to address concerns and needs expressed by area
residents pertaining to their mental and physical health.